By Daniela Zavala, HECHO’s Communications Director

With more people, especially children spending more time in front of screens, introducing kids to nature early in their lives has become more critical than ever.

Spending time in the great outdoors has many benefits. Countless studies have proven that nature can help your physical health, promoting active and healthy habits, and your mental health, alleviating stress, anxiety, and depression. Being in nature gives parents and their children opportunities to bond, create memories of a lifetime and share quality time.

I have always been a nature lover and an avid hiker. When I became a mother, I wanted to keep doing what I love, but I wondered if I would be able to do it.

It is possible and truly a magical experience, but it does require planning and adjustments.

Here are some tips that have worked for our family:

Start hiking early! I don’t mean to go hiking early in the morning, but to start hiking with your kids since they are babies or toddlers. Of course, it is never too late to introduce your kids to nature, but definitely “starting early” will make them used to these kinds of experiences, and it will be part of their lives, becoming a family activity they will look forward to doing it.
Invest in a good hiking baby carrier: Make sure to buy a high-quality carrier that fits right on you and is appropriate for your child’s age and weight. It will make a huge difference in your hike. Some child carriers have pockets for extra storage for snacks, sunscreens, diapers, etc.), which can be very useful.
Make it fun: Kids have an active imagination, so play with them and make games up as you hike. Bring some toys, a pail, a shovel, a ball, or something your kid can use outdoors and create their own game. My son loves to spot animals, pick little rocks and throw them in the water, and most recently go for “insects hunt.”
Select the right hike for your family: It will depend on your child’s age and your level of fitness and endurance. If you carry your kid on your back, your hike will be more demanding because of the extra weight. Also, be flexible and make some stops along the way. It is essential to follow their pace, don’t rush them. If you push them to go faster, your child will get frustrated, and no one will enjoy the hike. It is better not to put hiking distances or pace goals when hiking with kids, but instead focus on quality time as a family.

Snacks and drinks: Bring plenty of water and all sorts of snacks (I bring fruits, salty and sweet snacks because I never know what my son will crave!). Make stops for your kid to rehydrate and eat. If they are having fun and busy exploring, they may not realize how hungry or thirsty they are.

Proper clothing and footwear: Be mindful of the weather conditions. Before you go on a hike or camping, check the forecast of the place you are going to. You and the kids may need to dress in layers. Having the right shoes is very important to make the hike comfortable and avoid accidents or injuries. If your child is not potty trained, bring extra clothing and diapers. Also, please bring a bag to take any trash and dirty diapers with you! Do NOT litter trails or wilderness.
Sunblock and emergency kit: Make sure to reapply sunblock on your kid. Last but not least, bring wipes and the essential items of an emergency kit like alcohol pads, antibiotic ointment, and Band-Aids.

Hiking with kids takes time to get used to, but it is such a rewarding experience and an incredible opportunity to teach your child important life lessons, including a deep appreciation and respect for wildlife and nature, as well as the responsibility to care for and protect the great outdoors.

Blog: Tips for hiking with kids